Pregnancy Diary Week 31: How Is Your Baby Growing?

Baby is now weighing in around 3.3 lbs (1.49 kg) and from head to toe is just over 16 inches (40.64 cm) in length. From week 31 of pregnancy is when you can expect baby to have a good growth spurt in terms of gaining weight.

Her limbs and body are already beginning to become plumper, plus she can move her head from side to side.

She is now able to pass water from her bladder, and also tell the difference between day and night. Most likely baby is getting even livelier now in terms of movement and kicks, some women like to keep a diary of this.

Baby’s reproductive system is continuing its development. In her brain trillions of connections develop and by now she is using all of her five senses.

For those of you with twins on the way, it is around this time that they will be assuming their final positions for birth. Approximately 75% of twins get into the cephalic position (heads down) in order to make vaginal delivery easier.

Blueberries For Pregnancy Nutrition

 You may have already heard the hype about blueberries but here is a gentle reminder that blueberries are the fruit that has the highest amount of antioxidants. They are also an excellent source of folic acid, which of course may be beneficial for baby. Blueberries are packed with vitamin C, copper, B complex, vitamin A & E, selenium, iron and zinc. During pregnancy, iron helps to prevent oxidative stress.

The selenium contained in blueberries helps baby’s brain and nervous system to develop optimally. For Mums-to-be they help alleviate urinary tract infections. Do be aware that like any other food blueberries should be part of a healthy, well-balanced diet and a cup of blueberries per day is sufficient. Additionally, digestive trouble and constipation can be helped due to the high fibre content.

If you are someone who has previously suffered from an allergy to other berries then be careful with blueberries. Also, be aware that they contain tannin which can add to the risk of oral cancer if consumed in large amounts.

You can easily add blueberries into your cereal or mix them with natural yoghurt, but here are some other ideas.

Enjoy A Blueberry Smoothie

Combine half a cup of frozen blueberries, with half a cup of fresh blueberries. Grate the rind of half a lemon, and get one teaspoon of the lemon’s juice. Add half a cup of crushed ice, a dash of nutmeg and a quarter teaspoon of vanilla if you fancy it, then whizz them all together for around 30 to 40 seconds in the blender.